Wonderful time for Indian cinema: Farooque Shaikh

Happy and satisfied with the current lot of films, Farooque Shaikh says Indian cinema is enjoying its best phase right now.

"It's a wonderful time for Indian cinema and thanks to the multiplexes, which give opportunity to showcase independent films. I am extremely happy and satisfied with the kind of films being made today," Farooque told IANS.

A fabulous actor, the 65-year-old, who was seen in films like "Saath Saath", "Umrao Jaan" and "Noorie", has also been active on the small screen. He featured in satirical sitcom "Ji Mantriji" and hosted talk show "Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai".

Farooque would like to host the show again and added: "It's not up to me. It's the channel who will have to decide if they want me to host the show again. I would like to host it again, but it's hypothetical to comment on it right now."

The restored version of his 1981 buddy film "Chashme Buddoor" is releasing Friday along with the remake of the movie.

Recalling his memories of shooting with the team of "Chashme Buddoor" in 1981, he said: "The memories will always be there and I had a great time shooting for the film. We shot the film in Delhi and Delhi was more beautiful that time. I am glad I did that film."